In the time I’ve worked in the musical instruments industry, one of the things that has constantly amused/confused me is a tendency amongst some manufacturers and distributors to put their beautiful – and not so beautiful – machines in the hands of models/celebs who’ve blatantly never played a note in their lives.
Guitar ad campaigns are often the worst offenders – where some model is asked to drape herself across a company’s latest dream machine, or make like she’s rocking out at Wembley. Invariably the results are hilarious and, frankly, somewhat offensive to the musicians at whom the pitch is – presumably – being made. Y’know what we really appreciate? Talent… And frankly my dear, I’d rather look at Lemmy than that heroically awful attempt at a G chord you’re making a complete Horlicks of right there.
I was reminded of this the other day when I was looking at some old copies of Music Mart, and then stumbled across some pics of the newly-reformed Nolans clutching six-strings. This is a pic that runs the full gamut of classic insults to the musically-minded: no strap – check, strumming with the thumb – check, a ‘wtf’ chord shape – check… Seriously, those Gibsons you are holding may as well be inflatable.
Result: You’re not fooling me…
